India, Aug. 23 -- A rapidly growing wildfire burning northwest of Reno, Nevada, has expanded to approximately 8000 acres, per the National Intragency Fire Center. The Hawk Fire, which was initially reported just before 11:30 am on Saturday, swiftly moved through Washoe County's rugged terrain in the face of hazardous fire weather.

The fire has prompted mandatory evacuation, road closures and an extensive fire fighting operation. Officials warned residents to leave immediately as evacuation zones expanded throughout the day.

The fire is burning on US Forest Service land in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, north of Interstate 80 and south of US Highway 395. Authorities said the blaze is advancing in rugged terrain, while strong winds...